How To Recycle Your Christmas Tree In Carlsbad

CARLSBAD, CA — Don't dump or burn your Christmas tree this year — recycle it instead for free in Carlsbad.

One of the trickiest parts about wrapping up the holiday season can be figuring out what to do with your Christmas tree. Luckily, an environmental nonprofit in San Diego County offers several recycling options. But first, always make sure your tree is stripped of lights, tinsel, garlands, ornaments and stands.

Flocked or artificial trees cannot be recycled. If your tree is over 6 feet, they must be cut in half.

While many communities across the county can get their Christmas trees picked up curbside, drop-off locations by community can be found here, according to environmental nonprofit, I Love a Clean San Diego.

"Did you know Christmas trees can take hundreds of years to decompose in a landfill due to lack of oxygen to break it down? Help us keep San Diego’s landfills clear by turning yours into mulch and compost!" the organization said.

In Carlsbad, trees will be collected on Jan. 14 by Republic Services, which can be reached at 760-332-6464.

Trees are collected by a separate truck, not the regular compost truck that services your green composting car, according to Republic Services. Trees are collected curbside on the same day as your regular compost collection day.

You can also drop off your holiday tree at one of the following sites in Carlsbad, according to I Love a Clean San Diego:

• Calaveras Park 2997 Glasgow Dr.
• Poinsettia Park 6600 Hidden Valley Rd
• Stagecoach Park 3420 Camino del los Coches
• City of Carlsbad Fire Station I 1275 Carlsbad Village Dr.
• Palomar Transfer Station 5960 El Camino Real

If you still aren't sure where to take your tree, visit WasteFreeSD.org or call the nonprofit's hotline between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. Monday through Friday. Incorporated residents can. call 1-800-237-BLUE. Unincorporated residents can call 1-877-R-1-EARTH.